“I came to visit Linda. I was afraid that later, when more family members arrived, it would be inconvenient for me to come,” Michael said with a forced smile.

Everyone knew that Albert, the butler of the Wilder family’s residence, was someone who had stood by Linda through thick and thin.

Years ago, he was the company’s administrative secretary, managing all sorts of company affairs. After retirement, he came to work at the Wilder family’s residence.

Though it seemed he had stepped back from the company, anyone who wanted to see Linda still had to get past Albert.

His status was unquestionable.

Michael did not dare to be disrespectful.

Albert did not take the gifts, but said, “Thank you, Mr. Hall, but right now Miss Jessica and Mr. Green have returned. The Wilder and Hall families are still business partners. It’s a bit early to deliver your gifts. Other business partners might be upset.”

Albert was sly and cunning; he didn’t tell Michael to get lost, instead, he used business as a cover.

After being refused again and again, Michael’s expression darkened.

At that moment, Chris walked over.

“Who is it, Albert?” asked Chris, knowing full well.

Both Chris and Michael liked Jessica, but Albert treated Chris like his own son, smiling warmly.

Albert turned and said, “Mr. Hall is here.”

“Oh,” said Chris, then pulled the door open wider, appearing in front of Michael. “Mr. Hall, why have you come at this hour? Have you not brought Jordan? It’s the New Year—how could you leave the child alone at home?”

Michael smiled without sincerity. “Just came to visit Linda. I was afraid that the child would be too noisy. Is Jessica here too?”

“Yes, I came with Jessica. It’s the New Year, after all. It’s normal for us to come home together. Looks like you’ve bought some more gifts. Didn’t you already bring gifts to us last night?”

Michael looked down at all the gifts at his feet.

“That was for Jessica. These are for Linda. Different ages need different supplements. These were just shipped from Hesterfield.”

“My mother-in-law is well taken care of. She doesn’t look that old, to be honest. It’s better not to say such things in front of her, Mr. Hall.” After a pause, Chris added, ” Actually, I think what Albert said makes sense. We’re all business partners. Coming now might make others think you’re being too eager. How about you wait another couple of days?”

“Albert, may I speak to Chris alone for a moment?” Michael kept a polite attitude but clearly was uncomfortable with Albert.

Albert looked at Chris.

Chris said, “Sure. I just happen to have some things to say to Mr. Hall as well. Albert, go make some tea first. I think Mom likes Earl Grey.”

“Okay. Don’t stand at the door for too long, Mr. Green. It’s windy outside and cold.”

After Albert left, Michael’s disguised expression immediately shattered. He stepped forward, as if wanting to grab Chris by the collar.

“Chris, don’t you think you’re too much of a nuisance? You and Jessica are divorced. Why are you still here? You’re no longer a member of the Wilder family!”

“Whether I am or not isn’t important. What matters is that in Linda’s heart, my position still remains. Michael, being refused time and again must feel bitter, right? Actually, I can empathize. After all, I used to stand where you stand.”

“Chris, don’t be too smug. Sooner or later, I’ll make Jessica hate you. She will be mine!”

That was too ridiculous.

Chris asked, “Is Jessica some object? Does she belong to you just because you say so? Michael, do you really think that you can just get whatever you want? You must feel the same about your ex-wife, right?”